Just as it took the lead in implementing full-day kindergarten six years ago, Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) took the first step in implementing the first phase of full-day, school-based pre-school.
Seven sites, including two stand-alone pre-school locations, will form the 2013-2014 program. Indianapolis Board of School Commissioners recently approved the plan. Funding will come from a variety of sources and district officials are hopeful additional revenue could come from the Indiana General Assembly.
“We had to sacrifice to make this happen, but it’s too important to hold back,” said Dr. Eugene White, Superintendent of IPS. “One of our biggest concerns is school readiness, because kids are not prepared going into first grade. Full day preschool will close the readiness gap and have kids better prepared.”
The program will be curriculum-based, and includes best practices, employee certified teachers, classroom assistants and operate on a traditional school day schedule. Parents will have to provide transportation and either pay a monthly fee or volunteer at a school site.
IPS has been investigating full day pre-school since data showed the significant academic improvement of children having access to full day kindergarten. National and local educational leaders have continually pointed out the need for high quality pre-school that adequately prepares children for kindergarten.
“We have to intervene between home and kindergarten,” White said. “Full day preschool does that. This is just the first step for us.”
